Comparison · Minerals vs Carbonates
Aurichalcite vs Smithsonite
Aurichalcite and Smithsonite are easy to confuse. Smithsonite is harder (Mohs 4.5) than Aurichalcite (Mohs 1–2), so Smithsonite will scratch Aurichalcite and not the other way round. A fingernail (Mohs 2.5) scratches it easily. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Aurichalcite and Smithsonite
- Smithsonite is harder (Mohs 4.5) than Aurichalcite (Mohs 1–2), so Smithsonite will scratch Aurichalcite and not the other way round. A fingernail (Mohs 2.5) scratches it easily.
- Streak color differs: Aurichalcite leaves a pale blue-green streak on unglazed porcelain, Smithsonite leaves white.
- Luster is different: Aurichalcite is silky, pearly while Smithsonite is vitreous.
- Smithsonite feels noticeably heavier for its size (specific gravity 4.4 versus 3.6–3.9 for Aurichalcite).
- Hold a thin edge to the light: Aurichalcite is Translucent, Smithsonite is translucent.
- They overlap in green and blue, but Smithsonite also comes in yellow, pink, and white.
- Well-formed crystals give it away: Aurichalcite is Monoclinic, Smithsonite is trigonal.
Aurichalcite vs Smithsonite properties
| Property | Aurichalcite | Smithsonite |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Minerals | Carbonates |
| Mohs hardness | 1–2 | 4.5 |
| Luster | Silky, pearly | vitreous |
| Streak | Pale blue-green | White |
| Transparency | Translucent | translucent |
| Specific gravity | 3.6–3.9 | 4.4 |
| Crystal system | Monoclinic | trigonal |
| Common colors | Pale green, Blue-green, Sky blue | Blue green, Green, Blue, Yellow, Pink, White |
| Rarity | common | uncommon |
| Typical specimen value | $2–$150+ | $15–$900+ |
Which is more valuable?
Smithsonite is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $120 against $20 for Aurichalcite, and premium Smithsonite can reach $900 or more.
About Aurichalcite
Aurichalcite is a hydrated zinc copper carbonate, (Zn,Cu)5(CO3)2(OH)6, that forms as a secondary mineral in the weathered, oxidized portions of zinc and copper ore bodies. It typically appears as delicate, pale blue-green sprays of needle-like crystals with a distinctly pearly luster. The name derives from Greek words for gold and copper, an old and somewhat misleading reference to brass-like alloys rather than the mineral's actual color.
About Smithsonite
Smithsonite is a zinc carbonate mineral most admired for its smooth botryoidal crusts and soft pastel colors, especially blue-green. It also occurs as massive material and rare rhombohedral crystals and is a recognized zinc ore.
Aurichalcite vs Smithsonite FAQ
Is Aurichalcite the same as Smithsonite?
No. Aurichalcite is a mineral while Smithsonite is a carbonate. Smithsonite is harder (Mohs 4.5) than Aurichalcite (Mohs 1–2), so Smithsonite will scratch Aurichalcite and not the other way round. A fingernail (Mohs 2.5) scratches it easily.
How can you tell Aurichalcite from Smithsonite?
Smithsonite is harder (Mohs 4.5) than Aurichalcite (Mohs 1–2), so Smithsonite will scratch Aurichalcite and not the other way round. A fingernail (Mohs 2.5) scratches it easily. Streak color differs: Aurichalcite leaves a pale blue-green streak on unglazed porcelain, Smithsonite leaves white. Luster is different: Aurichalcite is silky, pearly while Smithsonite is vitreous.
Which is harder, Aurichalcite or Smithsonite?
Smithsonite is harder: Mohs 4.5 against Mohs 1–2 for Aurichalcite.
Which is more valuable, Aurichalcite or Smithsonite?
Smithsonite is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $120 against $20 for Aurichalcite, and premium Smithsonite can reach $900 or more.
